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Washington Oaks Gardens State Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 4,393 Google reviews · Running trail in Palm Coast, Florida · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Paved
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Washington Oaks Gardens State Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Park with hiking & biking paths offers a range of outdoor activities among gardens & live oak trees.
What runners say about Washington Oaks Gardens State Park
“The entire location felt peaceful, romantic, and so well maintained.”
“The grounds are stunning, with beautiful mossy oak trees, charming gazebos, and gorgeous rose gardens that made the perfect backdrop for pictures.”
“There are plenty of lovely spots for exploring and having quiet moments.”
Washington Oaks Gardens State Park in January is a real treat—those cooler winter days make strolling the shaded paths under the massive ancient live oaks feel especially refreshing and peaceful, with that classic Florida coastal breeze keeping things comfortable.
This has been a favorite spot for myself and my family for 35 years now, and counting! We've enjoyed countless beach walks, never tiring of the amazing coquina rock formations. We especially love to visit when the azaleas are in bloom. The rose garden is a joy to behold when it's in bloom several times a year.
This is a nice place to spend a fraction of a day. The trails are not strenuous and there are plenty of benches if you’re with someone who needs to take a break. The picnic area has grills and pavilions. The garden is well maintained but modest. The beach part of the park is scenic. My dog loved this place.
A beautiful park to go for a nice hike or just walk around and take in the scenery. The grounds are taken very good care of. Easiest 5$ I've every spent.
Trail conditions & character
“There are benches along the Intracoastal near the visitor center to take in the expansive water views, see dolphins playing, sea turtles, manatee, or simply watch the boats go by.”
“No real bathrooms, porty potty only nor a place to rinse on the ocean front but was well worth it!”
“There are plenty of lovely spots for exploring and having quiet moments.”
“It’s basically a big loop but there is a straight asphalted path down the middle of the circle.”
“When you do half the loop, you get to a fork where you can decide if you want to choose the asphalt path or continue on the trail.”
Plan your run at Washington Oaks Gardens State Park
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfacePaved — asphalt or concrete. Fast and predictable, runnable year-round, and fine with a stroller
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadrestrooms — reported by runners
- Websitefloridastateparks.org
- Phone+1 386-446-6780
Running trails near Palm Coast
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
River to Sea Preserve
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Uncrowded, scenic beach with a boardwalk for viewing, along with trails through palm forests.
Princess Place Preserve
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2,200-acre riverside preserve with a 19th-century lodge & hiking, biking & equestrian trails.
Mala Compra MTB Trail
4.7 ★★★★★ 156 reviews
Park with bike trails for different skill levels, as well as opportunities for disc golf.
